On March 9, Barbie turns 56, and while the brand has come under a lot of criticism over the years, this is a wonderful time to take a step back and really celebrate her many positive contribution to the lives of girls everywhere.

We want children to grow up in a world where possibilities are many, where there are more options for them, and certainly playing with Director Barbie is going to give children an expectation that this job is open to both sexes. But children are sponges who absorb cultural cues.

Mattel has plenty of stellar executives. But as the company searches for its new leader from outside or within its walls, it needs to select the one who has entertainment, franchise development, and storytelling expertise in his or her DNA, and who can infuse the same at all levels and in all discussions.

Carefully crafted ideas -- and adherence to the ABCs of brand building -- must remain our lighthouse. As brand pioneers, we must explore the shoals of a new digital landscape. But let's not become stranded by algorithmic trendiness. Timeless can be new.

All we really need to do is watch a teenager playing a video game -- trance-like and oblivious to the world around them -- to know that entertainment, in every way shape or form, can change the way we think and act. Personally, I found the deepest meaning of this concept last summer, while visiting a filmmaker for a piece I was writing on him.

If you're looking for reviews, there are brilliant men and women out there who do it all beautifully. But if you're looking for highlights, fun tidbits and a slightly different way of looking at the grandest film festival in the world, you're in the right place.

Toys help kids discover who they are and introduce the choices they can make at a young age. This year, girl empowerment is a big trend. While I thought there were a lot of toy companies making it happen for girls, there's really just a handful -- but it's a handful that will make a difference.

When they are little, kids just want to be with us, hold our hands, cuddle, and play. They do grow up fast though, and before you know it, they are turning 6 (give or take a few years), and suddenly they need to express themselves and show their independent style.